1845 Seated Liberty Quarter Value Guide (2025 Prices)
1845 Seated Liberty Quarter worth $45-$195,500. Complete value guide covering business strikes, rare proofs, FS-301 variety, and grading diagnostics.
The 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter is worth $45 to $195,500, depending on grade and strike type.
- Circulated grades (G-4 to EF-40): $45 â $225
- Uncirculated (AU-50 to MS-66): $300 â $12,250
- Proof strikes: $19,975 â $195,500 (legendary rarity)
- FS-301 RPD variety: $100 â $788 (premium over common dates)
This coin is readily available in circulated grades but becomes a significant condition rarity in Gem Uncirculated (MS-65+), where prices increase exponentially.
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1845 Seated Liberty Quarter: Overview and Significance
The 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter features Liberty seated on a rock with drapery (obverse) and heraldic eagle (reverse).
The 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter represents the second design type of this long-running series, featuring Christian Gobrecht's iconic Liberty figure with added drapery. Struck exclusively at the Philadelphia Mint with a business strike mintage of 922,000, this coin occupies a fascinating position in the collector market.
In circulated grades, the 1845 quarter is accessible to most collectors, with values ranging from $45 to $225. However, the coin transforms into a formidable rarity in Gem Uncirculated condition, where prices exceed $6,000 and can reach $12,250 for the finest known examples. The Proof strikings, with an estimated original mintage of only 6 to 10 pieces, are legendary six-figure rarities.
This comprehensive guide provides detailed price tables, variety analysis (including the collectible FS-301 Repunched Date), grading diagnostics, and authentication tips to help collectors accurately evaluate and acquire these historic silver quarters.
How to Identify Your 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter
Mint mark location on Seated Liberty Quarters (1845 Philadelphia has no mint mark).
Design Features and Type Characteristics
The 1845 quarter belongs to the "Type 2, No Motto, With Drapery" design variant of the Seated Liberty series. The obverse depicts Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield inscribed with "LIBERTY" in her right hand and a pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her left. Thirteen stars encircle the upper periphery, with the date 1845 below.
The defining characteristic of this type is the presence of drapery extending from Liberty's left elbow down toward her knee. This distinguishes it from the earlier "No Drapery" type struck from 1838-1840. The reverse features a heraldic eagle with a shield on its breast, clutching an olive branch in its right talon and arrows in its left. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" appears above, with the denomination written as "QUAR. DOL." below.
Mint Mark Location
All 1845 quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and bear no mint mark. The area on the reverse below the eagle and above "QUAR. DOL." is blank. While other mints like New Orleans were active in 1845, they did not produce quarter dollars that year.
Business Strike vs. Proof Identification
Business strikes intended for circulation exhibit a soft, satiny luster when uncirculated. The strike quality can vary, with some weakness often visible on Liberty's head, knee, and the centers of the obverse stars. The rims are typically rounded.
Proof strikes are visually distinct, produced as special presentation pieces. They feature sharp, squared-off rims, deeply mirrored fields that reflect like a mirror, and frosted devices creating a "cameo" effect. The strike is exceptionally sharp and full across all design elements. Proofs were struck multiple times on highly polished planchets using specially prepared dies.
Complete Price Guide: 1845 Quarter Values by Grade
The market for 1845 Seated Liberty Quarters is characterized by affordability in circulated grades and dramatic escalation at the Gem Uncirculated level. This bifurcated value structure reflects the coin's historical context: few were saved in pristine condition during an era when numismatics was still a nascent hobby.
Business Strike Values (Philadelphia Mint)
With a mintage of 922,000, the 1845 business strike is readily available in lower grades but becomes a significant condition rarity above MS-64. The following values consolidate data from NGC, PCGS, APMEX, and recent auction results.
| Grade | NGC Price Guide | APMEX Retail | Auction Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | $45 | $43 | Retail-focused grade |
| VG-8 | $70 | $52 | Retail-focused grade |
| F-12 | $100 | $76 | $50-$75 |
| VF-20 | $160 | $110 | $100-$140 |
| EF-40 | $225 | $197 | $200-$250 |
| AU-50 | $300 | $332 | $275-$350 |
| AU-58 | $550 | N/A | $400-$500 |
| MS-60 | $725 | $789 | $650-$800 |
| MS-62 | $1,200 | N/A | $800-$1,000 |
| MS-63 | $1,500 | $1,430 | $900-$1,200 |
| MS-64 | $2,250 | $2,365 | $1,200-$1,600 |
| MS-65 | $6,500 | $6,150 | $4,900-$5,600 |
| MS-66 | N/A | $12,250 | $7,800 (Heritage) |
đĄ Understanding the "Gem Cliff"
The jump from MS-64 ($2,250) to MS-65 ($6,500) represents a nearly 200% increase. This exponential leap reflects the extreme scarcity of Gem-quality survivors. According to historical population data, NGC had graded only 12 coins finer than MS-63, while PCGS had graded only 7 coins higher than MS-64. This condition rarity stems from the fact that most 1845 quarters entered circulation, where they quickly acquired marks precluding a high grade.
Proof Strike Values (Philadelphia Mint)
Proof 1845 quarters are objects of legendary rarity, with an estimated original mintage of only 6 to 10 pieces and a surviving population of perhaps half a dozen. These special presentation pieces command six-figure prices, with values determined by the unique circumstances of each auction sale.
| Grade | NGC Guide | Notable Auction Results |
|---|---|---|
| PR-62 | N/A | $19,975 (Heritage, April 2015) |
| PR-63 | $26,000 | PR-62 sold for $19,975 |
| PR-64 | $32,500 | $30,550 (Heritage, April 2013); $55,000 retail listing |
| PR-65 | $45,000 | $31,725 (Heritage, October 2015); $120,000 Eliasberg pedigree |
| PR-66 | $100,000 | $129,250 (Heritage, August 2013); $195,500 (Heritage, January 2008) |
â ď¸ Provenance Matters for Ultra-Rarities
The significant variance in auction results for the same grade illustrates the importance of pedigree and market timing. A PR-65 with the famous Eliasberg Pedigree commands $120,000âfar exceeding both the NGC guide value and a 2015 auction result. For coins of this caliber, provenance and individual character are as important as the technical grade in determining value.
Intrinsic Silver Value
The 1845 quarter contains 0.1933 troy ounces of silver. At a silver spot price of approximately $48.00 per troy ounce, the melt value is approximately $9.28. This calculation reveals that even the lowest-grade collectible examples trade at more than four times their intrinsic metal value, demonstrating that numismatic demandânot silver contentâdrives pricing for this historic coin.
Grading Your 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter
Grade progression: VF-20 shows moderate wear, AU-50 slight friction, MS-65 full mint luster.
Accurate grading requires understanding where wear first appears and distinguishing circulation wear from weak strikesâa common issue with Seated Liberty coinage.
Key Wear Points
Friction and wear appear first on the highest points of the design:
Obverse: Liberty's right knee is the most prominent high point and shows wear first. Next are her left breast and the hair just above her ear. In lower circulated grades, the shield and cap details also flatten.
Reverse: The eagle's neck and head wear first, followed by its claws and the top edges of its wings. In very worn examples, the shield on the eagle's breast loses detail.
Primary wear points: Liberty's knee, breast, and head (obverse); eagle's neck, claws, and wing tops (reverse).
Strike Quality vs. Circulation Wear
A critical skill for Seated Liberty specialists is differentiating weak strikes from genuine wear. Coins from this era were often struck with less than full pressure, resulting in softness on high points even on uncirculated pieces.
An uncirculated coin with a weak strike will show flat details on Liberty's head or the eagle's feathers but will retain full, undisturbed mint luster. A worn coin shows a rubbing or smoothing of the high points and a disruption of lusterâthe metal appears "compacted" from handling.
Strike quality comparison: weak strike shows flat details even without wear; strong strike has full definition.
Grade Expectations by Level
Good (G-4): The date and major design elements are visible, but Liberty is an outline with minimal detail. The motto "LIBERTY" on the shield is partially or fully worn away.
Very Fine (VF-20): Moderate wear is evident, but all major details are clear. Liberty's gown shows several folds, and about half the feather detail remains on the eagle.
Extremely Fine (EF-40): Light wear on high points only. Nearly all design details are sharp, with most of Liberty's gown lines and eagle feathers visible.
About Uncirculated (AU-50/58): Slight friction on the highest points, but 90-98% of the original mint luster remains. No actual "wear" in the sense of metal loss, just light surface contact.
Mint State (MS-60 to MS-66): No circulation wear. Grading distinctions are based on strike quality, surface preservation, luster quality, and the presence/absence of contact marks. MS-65 and higher examples are exceptionally scarce, with strong eye appeal, minimal marks, and full luster.
Die Varieties: 1845 FS-301 Repunched Date
FS-301 variety shows clear repunching below date digits, most visible below the 1, 8, and 4.
The most significant and widely collected die variety for the 1845 quarter is the FS-301 Repunched Date (RPD). This variety is also cataloged as Briggs B-3C and is sometimes referred to as the "1845/845" or "1845/5" in older references.
Attribution and Diagnostics
The primary diagnostic for the FS-301 is clear doubling of the date. Under magnification with a 5x to 10x loupe, remnants of a previous date punching are visible directly south (below) the final, bold date. The underlying digits are most often visible below the 1, 8, and particularly the 4. This repunching occurred when the die engraver punched the date into the working die, removed it, and then punched it again in a slightly different position.
Rarity and Market Value
The FS-301 is considered a scarce variety. Auction records show only three examples sold over a 15-year period on GreatCollections, indicating its infrequent market appearance. The variety commands a significant premium over the common business strike at all grade levels.
| Grade | Condition | Price | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| G-4 | Good | $115 | Retail listing |
| VG-8 | Very Good | $100-$104 | Retail listing |
| EF-45 | Details (Cleaned) | $369-$380 | Retail listing |
| EF-45 | Problem-Free | $385 | eBay sale (Dec 2023) |
| AU | Details (Cleaned) | $710 | Retail listing |
| AU-58 | Problem-Free | $788 | GreatCollections auction |
đĄ Collector Tip
A notable pattern in the market for this variety is the prevalence of examples graded as "Details" due to cleaning. For instance, an NGC AU Details (Cleaned) example sells for $710, while a problem-free AU-58 brought $788 at auction. This suggests that while cleaning severely impacts value, the premium for the variety helps offset some of the discount. This pattern is common for 19th-century varieties that were not widely recognized until decades after they were struck.
Mint Errors on 1845 Seated Liberty Quarters
Mint errors add value: die cracks, off-center strikes, and broadstrikes are most common.
While no major, recurring mint errors are specifically cataloged for the 1845 quarter, various error types from this era of minting do exist and command premiums. The value of any error is highly dependent on its type, severity, and visual appeal.
Die Cracks
Die cracks form when a die fractures during use, transferring to the coin as raised lines of metal. Minor die cracks are very common and add little to no value. However, significant die cracksâsuch as those running across large portions of the coinâcan add a modest premium. Examples in Fine condition with long reverse die cracks have been offered for $155, while AU examples with prominent cracks have reached nearly $700.
Off-Center Strikes
Off-center strikes occur when the planchet is not properly centered between the dies during striking. Value increases with the percentage the coin is off-center, particularly if the full date remains visible. A minor 5-10% off-center Seated quarter might bring a premium of $50-$150. A dramatic 50% off-center strike with full date could command several hundred dollars or more.
Broadstrikes
This error occurs when a coin is struck without the retaining collar in place, causing the metal to expand outward. The result is a coin of larger diameter with a plain (not reeded) edge. Broadstruck Seated quarters are rare and could command premiums of several hundred dollars, depending on grade and the extent of the error.
Lamination Errors
Impurities in the silver planchet can cause pieces of the coin's surface to flake or peel away. Minor lamination flaws add little value, but large, dramatic, or "retained" laminations (where the flap of metal is still attached) can add premiums of $50 to over $200.
đĄ Error Valuation Note
The market for mint errors is driven by specialists, and values are not standardized in the same way as regular-issue coins. The figures provided are general estimates based on similar errors within the Seated Liberty series. For any specific error coin, professional authentication and market research are recommended.
Authentication and Problem Detection
Cleaned coins show unnatural brightness, parallel scratches (hairlines), and disrupted luster.
Authenticating 19th-century silver coinage requires understanding common alterations and counterfeits. While the 1845 quarter is not among the most heavily counterfeited dates in the series, awareness of potential issues is essential for collectors.
Cast counterfeits, though less common for this specific date, can be identified by several telltale signs. Examine the surface texture carefullyâgenuine coins have crisp, sharp details, while cast fakes often exhibit a "soapy" or porous surface texture. The weight should be exactly 6.68 grams; cast counterfeits frequently deviate from this standard. Under magnification, cast pieces may show tiny casting bubbles or texture inconsistencies not present on struck coins.
A more prevalent threat for the Seated Liberty series is the addition of mint marks. Forgers take common Philadelphia issues and add mint marks (such as S or CC) to simulate much rarer coins. While this is less relevant for the 1845 (which only exists as a Philadelphia issue), it's a critical concern when examining other dates in the series. Signs of added mint marks include discoloration or an unnatural halo around the mark, a mint mark style inconsistent with the era (such as the "Trumpet Tail S" style used after 1941 on Philadelphia-struck coins), or microscopic tooling marks visible under strong magnification.
Altered dates are another concern, though less frequent. Compare the font, size, and position of the date numerals to those on certified genuine examples. Any inconsistencies or signs of tooling warrant further investigation.
Harsh cleaning is perhaps the most common problem encountered with Seated Liberty quarters. A cleaned coin exhibits fine, parallel scratches (called hairlines) visible under proper lighting, an unnaturally bright or dull surface, and a loss of original mint luster. Grading services encapsulate cleaned coins with a "Details" grade (e.g., "XF Details - Cleaned"), and these coins trade at substantial discountsâoften 30% to 60% less than problem-free counterparts. Physical damage such as significant scratches, rim bumps, graffiti, holes, or bending will also result in a "Details" grade and severe reduction in market value.
For any 1845 quarter of significant valueâparticularly uncirculated examples or the FS-301 varietyâprofessional authentication and grading by PCGS or NGC is strongly recommended. Third-party certification provides not only authentication but also consistent grading standards that facilitate accurate market valuation.
Preservation and Care
Proper long-term care is essential to protect the value and condition of any numismatic item, particularly historic silver coinage like the 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter.
When handling coins, always hold them by their edges between the thumb and forefinger. This prevents skin oils and acids from contacting the surfaces, which can cause permanent fingerprints, toning alterations, and corrosion over time. Never touch the obverse or reverse faces of a coin with bare fingers.
For storage, use only inert, archival-quality holders. Raw (uncertified) coins should be stored in hard plastic capsules or Mylar flips specifically designed for numismatic use. Avoid soft, flexible PVC flips at all costsâthe chemicals in this type of plastic can leach out over time and cause permanent green staining or "PVC damage" to a coin's surface. Certified holders from PCGS and NGC provide excellent long-term protection and are designed to be inert and stable.
Store your collection in a stable, low-humidity environment. A cool, dry location away from extreme temperature fluctuations is ideal to minimize the risk of accelerated toning and corrosion. Avoid basements prone to dampness and attics subject to temperature extremes. A home safe or safety deposit box often provides the most stable conditions.
Under no circumstances should a collectible coin be cleaned. Any abrasive cleaning (even gentle rubbing with a soft cloth) or chemical cleaning will damage the coin's surface and drastically reduce its numismatic value. What may appear to be "dirt" or "tarnish" to the untrained eye is often desirable original toning to collectors, and cleaning will permanently destroy both the surface texture and the value premium associated with originality. If a coin appears to need cleaning, consult a professional numismatist before taking any action.
Recent Auction Results and Market Trends
Tracking auction results provides valuable insight into the real-world market for 1845 Seated Liberty Quarters. The following notable sales from 2020-2025 illustrate pricing patterns across grades.
In the circulated grade range, a VF-30 example sold for $120 in October 2022, while an AU-53 brought $312 in March 2023. These results align closely with published price guides, suggesting stable demand for mid-grade examples.
The Mint State market shows more price volatility, reflecting the extreme scarcity of high-grade survivors. An AU-58 realized $432 in March 2023, while MS-63 examples have sold for $900 (March 2023) and $1,140 (September 2021). MS-64 coins brought $1,560 (September 2021) and $1,260 (February 2020).
At the Gem level, where the "cliff" in pricing becomes dramatic, MS-65 examples achieved $5,520 (August 2020) and $4,920 (March 2023). An MS-66 sold through Heritage for an estimated $7,800 in May 2025, representing one of the finest known examples of the date.
Proof strikes, when they appear, consistently command six-figure prices. A PR-62 brought $19,975 at Heritage in April 2015. A PR-64 realized $30,550 at Heritage in April 2013. The highest grade recorded, PR-66, sold for $195,500 at Heritage in January 2008, though a similar-grade piece realized $129,250 in August 2013, illustrating how market conditions and individual coin characteristics affect realized prices for ultra-rarities.
For the FS-301 Repunched Date variety, market appearances are infrequent. An AU-58 example sold for $788 at GreatCollections, representing one of only three examples offered over a 15-year tracking period. This scarcity, combined with strong specialist demand, supports consistent premiums over common-date business strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1845 Seated Liberty Quarter worth?
The value depends primarily on grade and strike type. Circulated examples range from $45 (G-4) to $225 (EF-40). Uncirculated coins range from $300 (AU-50) to $12,250 (MS-66). Proof strikes are legendary rarities worth $19,975 to $195,500. The FS-301 Repunched Date variety commands premiums of $100 to $788.
Where is the mint mark on an 1845 quarter?
All 1845 quarters were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and have no mint mark. The area on the reverse below the eagle and above "QUAR. DOL." is blank. Other mints did not produce quarters in 1845.
What is the FS-301 variety, and how do I identify it?
The FS-301 is a Repunched Date variety showing clear doubling of the date. Under 5x-10x magnification, look for remnants of a previous date punching visible directly below the final date, most evident below the 1, 8, and 4. This scarce variety commands significant premiums at all grade levels.
Should I get my 1845 quarter professionally graded?
For any uncirculated example, high-grade circulated coin (EF and above), the FS-301 variety, or any coin you believe may have significant value, professional grading by PCGS or NGC is recommended. Third-party certification provides authentication, consistent grading standards, and greater marketability. The cost (typically $30-$50 for standard service) is worthwhile for coins valued over $200-$300.
How do I tell the difference between a weak strike and wear?
This is a critical skill for Seated Liberty collectors. A weak strike shows flat details on high points but retains full, undisturbed mint luster. Circulation wear shows a rubbing or smoothing of high points with disrupted lusterâthe metal appears "compacted" from handling. If the coin has luster, it's uncirculated; if luster is broken or missing on the high points, it has wear.
What makes a Proof 1845 quarter so valuable?
The original Proof mintage was only 6 to 10 pieces, with perhaps half a dozen surviving today. These were special presentation pieces struck multiple times on polished planchets for dignitaries and elite collectors. The combination of legendary rarity, exceptional beauty (mirrored fields, frosted devices), and historical significance drives six-figure prices.
Can I clean my silver quarter to improve its appearance?
Never clean a collectible coin. Any cleaningâeven gentle methodsâwill damage the surface, destroy original luster and toning, and drastically reduce numismatic value. What appears as "dirt" or "tarnish" to the untrained eye is often desirable original toning to collectors. Professional conservation exists for truly damaged coins, but this is different from cleaning and should only be undertaken by expert conservators.
Are die cracks and errors valuable on 1845 quarters?
Minor die cracks are common and add little value. However, significant die cracks, off-center strikes (especially 20-50% off with full date), broadstrikes, and dramatic lamination errors can add premiums ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the error type and severity. The error market is specialist-driven, so professional authentication is recommended for any error coin.
What is the silver content of an 1845 quarter?
The coin contains 90% silver and 10% copper, with 0.1933 troy ounces of Actual Silver Weight (ASW). At a silver spot price of approximately $48 per ounce, the melt value is about $9.28. However, numismatic value far exceeds melt value for all collectible-grade examples.
Why do MS-65 coins cost so much more than MS-64?
This phenomenon is known as the "Gem Cliff." The jump from MS-64 ($2,250) to MS-65 ($6,500) represents a nearly 200% increase because of extreme scarcity. Historical population reports show NGC graded only 12 coins finer than MS-63, and PCGS only 7 coins higher than MS-64. Most 1845 quarters entered circulation in the 19th century, so Gem survivors are exceptionally rare. Strong demand from type set and registry set collectors competing for these few pieces drives the dramatic price escalation.
Research Methodology and Sources
This comprehensive value guide synthesizes data from multiple authoritative sources to provide accurate, current market valuations for 1845 Seated Liberty Quarters. Primary pricing data is drawn from the NGC Price Guide (October 2025), APMEX retail listings (October 2025), PCGS CoinFacts, and five years of verified auction results (2020-2025) from Heritage Auctions, GreatCollections, and other major numismatic auction houses.
Die variety information is based on the Cherrypickers' Guide classification system (FS designations) and cross-referenced with the Briggs die marriage catalog. Technical specifications are verified against U.S. Mint records and authoritative numismatic references including the Guide Book of United States Coins and specialty works on Seated Liberty coinage.
All values represent retail prices that collectors can expect to pay for problem-free, properly graded examples. Actual prices realized in private transactions or auctions may vary based on individual coin characteristics (such as exceptional eye appeal, toning, or pedigree), current market conditions, and the specific venue of sale. The silver melt value calculation is based on recent spot prices and is subject to daily fluctuation with precious metals markets.
Collectors should note that coin values can fluctuate based on overall economic conditions, collector demand trends, and the appearance of new auction records. This guide reflects market conditions as of late 2025 and should be used in conjunction with current auction results and dealer offerings for the most accurate real-time valuations.
